Valproic
acid and its derivatives are used solely
or in combination with other anticonvulsants
to prevent seizures and migraines. Valproates
are effective against the manic phase of
bipolar disorder. A fatty acid with anticonvulsant properties used in the treatment of epilepsy.
The mechanisms of its therapeutic actions are not well understood. It may act by
increasing GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID levels in the brain or by altering the
properties of voltage dependent sodium channels.

http://www.merck.com/Special Alerts-Valproic Acid and Derivatives: Risk of Birth Defects -
December 2009 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a
reminder to healthcare professionals and patients about the increased risk of
neural tube defects (1 in 20 babies born exposed to valproic acid and
derivatives compared to ~1 in 1500 not exposed), as well as, other major birth
defects (eg, craniofacial defects, cardiovascular malformation), especially with
exposure during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Information from the North
American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry notes a fourfold increase in
congenital malformations with exposure to valproic acid monotherapy during the
1st trimester of pregnancy when compared to monotherapy with other antiepileptic
drugs (AED)..........

http://www.sleepassociation.org/Aggressive agitation, agitation and insomnia with generalized anxiety are
commonly observed in Alzheimer's disease. These symptoms remain a principal
problem in the clinical management of elderly patients. Neuroleptics are
commonly the selected medication for controlling severe aggression, especially
the violent out bursts often seen in demented patients. Their use is frequently
complicated by side effects, particularly somnolence and confusion. Valpromide
and Carbamazepine have been efficacy alternatives and very well tolerated. We
report eight cases of demented patients who presented an agitation and
aggressive behaviors and had been treated with Valpromide or Carbamazepine. The
patients agitation was well controlled at that point and had no apparent side
effects. A combination Valpromide or Carbamazepine with neuroleptics permitted a
reduction doses of neuroleptics and their side effects. We think that these
behaviors disorders belong to the mood disorders. The symptomatology is modified
because an alteration of cognitive faculty.